There are many qualities that make a great leader. But the ability to stick with them during turbulent times, is the most important characteristic of a great leader. Ratish Pandey, General Manager, Bose Corporation India Pvt Ltd is one such person who loves to take up such challenges. He has always remained close to his belief - of making Bose audio system affordable to Indian music lovers. And if results are an indication, his efforts are finally paying off.

Buoyed by growth in its sales, the BCIPL, an Indian subsidiary of the US-headquartered audio major Bose Corporation is planning to increase its number of retail outlets to 16 by 2007 for its home audio products division. Having registered 60 per cent growth on year-to-year basis in the last 3-4 years in India, Pandey seems to be upbeat about the company's performance under his leadership."Our home audio division presently has seven retail outlets.

We are planning to increase the number of outlets to 12 by 2006 and 16 outlets by 2007," he said during a recent interview. Known for his business acumen and marketing strategies, Pandey, who has been with the BCIPL since 1995, has ensured his products making their presence felt in the Indian market.

In fact, BCIPL made a very humble beginning when it started its operations in early 1996 with the initial focus on design and installation of professional sound systems in public places. Later, it started retail operations by adopting 'Direct to Customer' approach. And fighting these initial teething problems was Pandey, like a true leader. Believing that there is no short cut to success, Pandey climbed professional ladder gradually, through his sheer conviction and dedicated hard work. He joined Bose Corporation as a consultant.

In 1996 he became member of the management team serving as Controller and was responsible for the Financial, Legal and Logistical functions of Bose India. In 1999, he was named Divisional Manager of the Professional Systems Division. Under his leadership, the division strengthened and achieved an impressive sales growth. It was only in 2001 when he was appointed General Manager Bose Corporation, and since then there was no looking back for Pandey.